Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the cost of the program?

A: The cost of the India Study Away (ISA) Fall programs will be the
same as the Furman comprehensive tuition for that semester. The tuition
for Fall in India includes four 4-credit courses, all accommodations,
all meals, entrance fees, and all domestic & international transportation in India.
All scholarship monies and financial aid grants will be
applicable to the India program, as they would be for any on-campus
Furman course offerings. (It is a good idea to confirm third party aid through your Financial Aid provider). Should students have any specific questions about scholarships and financial aid, please contact Ms. Janie Burton in
the Student Business Center.

Q: What are expenses that are not covered?

A: A non-refundable Study Away Program fee of $200.00. Travel to and from the departure airport (either GSP or ATL) will not be covered by the program tuition. Other expenses that will not be covered include: vaccinations, prophylactic medications, books, photocopying costs, passport and visa fees, and personal shopping and souvenir purchases.

Q: Do I need to get any special vaccinations?

A: We suggest that all students contact a family physician to discuss
particular matters of vaccinations or prophylactic medications. In
addition, students should consult the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

Q: How many course credits will I receive?

A: ISA participants who complete the program will receive 16 credits (four 4-credit courses), a full semester's worth of course credits. In addition, students will receive a semester's worth of CLP credit.

Q: Is India safe?

A: Furman University is committed to providing a fulfilling and educationally enriching environment whether here on campus or as part of Furman's overseas programs. The travel-residential study program in India is part of Furman extended beyond the shores of the United States, and in this case to a place that has its own set of challenges, as you are aware. None of the challenges are insurmountable since we are taking all necessary precautions based on the wealth of personal and professional experience that we bring to travel in India. In addition, as parents ourselves who have traveled to India with our respective spouses and children, we do well appreciate all concerns.

During the travel portion of the trip, we will stay in 3-4-star hotels in metropolitan areas in India, including Delhi, Agra, and Kochi. Our academic travel coordinator is arranging hotel accommodations with the knowledge of the needs of American travelers, as far as convenience, safety, and facilities are concerned. The hotels maintain safety standards of any hotel well-frequented by international travelers who are in India for business and tourism. During the residential portion, we will stay at Madras Christian College's (MCC) international guest house. The house is located on the 365-acre College campus, in a suburb of downtown Chennai. Much like Furman, Madras Christian College is a green, lush campus with nearby city access. The College and its international guest house have been home to numerous study abroad programs from the United States, and around the world, most notably a 25 year old relationship with Davidson College (North Carolina). The co-directors will reside on-site with students during the entire program. In other words, we will be staying in the same hotels during the travel portion and will reside in the international guest house during the residential stay. We will also travel together as a group for the program.

All the sites on our itinerary are located within or very close to India's most developed metropolitan areas with excellent medical facilities using western medical technologies. Several of the day/weekend trips that are planned take us away from cities, but we are still in close proximity. The ancient ruins of Mahabalipuram, for example, are only 1 hour from Chennai. Arrangements are in place should there be a need for any emergency evacuation of the group or of an individual. The Program Directors will have communication access to the Furman Study Away Office, the Asian Studies Department, and the MCC administrators at all times.

We will prepare students not only for scholarly endeavors, but also for practical matters of travel in India. Orientation sessions will include details about safety and security, and "city logic" for how to and how not to behave in a major world city.

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